PKL 12: Teams Yet to Win Their First Title
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has been a fan favorite in India since its launch in 2014, delivering thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. Over the past 11 seasons, teams like Jaipur Pink Panthers, Patna Pirates, and Haryana Steelers have lifted the PKL trophy, creating lasting legacies. However, four teams, Telugu Titans, Gujarat Giants, Tamil Thalaivas, and UP Yoddhas are still waiting to win their first title in PKL 12. With loyal fans hoping for a breakthrough, PKL 12 could be the year one of these teams makes history.
Since its debut, PKL has grown into one of India’s most popular sports leagues, showcasing the excitement of kabaddi. The first season saw Jaipur Pink Panthers win the title, setting the stage for intense competition. U Mumba grabbed attention in PKL 2 with stars like Anup Kumar and Mohit Chhillar, winning the trophy and reaching finals in three straight seasons. Patna Pirates, led by Pardeep Narwal, dominated with three consecutive titles from PKL 3 to PKL 5, raising fears of a one-sided league. However, no team has defended their title since, keeping PKL 12 unpredictable.
Jaipur Pink Panthers (PKL 1 and PKL 9) are the only team with multiple titles, while Patna Pirates hold three. Puneri Paltan’s win in PKL 10 left Telugu Titans as the only original team without a title. Haryana Steelers, a newer team from PKL 5, won in PKL 11, proving new franchises can shine. Now, all eyes are on PKL 12 to see if Telugu Titans, Gujarat Giants, Tamil Thalaivas, or UP Yoddhas can claim their first trophy.
Telugu Titans
Telugu Titans, one of the eight original PKL teams, have yet to win a title, leaving their passionate Hyderabad fans waiting. Their best moments came in PKL 2 and PKL 4, reaching the semifinals. In PKL 2, they won the third-place match, but lost in PKL 4. Since then, success has been hard to come by. In PKL 8, 9, and 10, they finished in the bottom three, despite having stars like Rahul Chaudhari, Siddharth Desai, and Pawan Sehrawat.
However, PKL 11 showed signs of improvement, with the Titans finishing seventh, just missing the playoffs. For PKL 12, Telugu Titans need to build a balanced squad with strong raiders and defenders. Their loyal fans hope PKL 12 will be the season they finally lift the trophy, ending their title drought.
Gujarat Giants
Gujarat Giants, originally called Gujarat Fortunegiants, joined PKL in Season 5 and made an immediate impact. Under captains Fazel Atrachali (PKL 5) and Sunil Kumar (PKL 6), they reached the finals in their first two seasons but lost both times. These early successes raised hopes for the Ahmedabad-based team, known for nurturing young talent.
Despite their early promise, Gujarat Giants have struggled to repeat that success. They reached the playoffs in PKL 8 and PKL 10 but were knocked out in the Eliminator rounds. For PKL 12, the Giants, with players like Mohammadreza Shadloui, aim to go beyond the playoffs. Their experience and fan support make them a strong contender to win their first title in PKL 12.
Tamil Thalaivas
Tamil Thalaivas, representing Tamil Nadu, a state with a rich kabaddi history, joined PKL in Season 5. However, their journey has been tough, finishing at the bottom in their first three seasons (PKL 5-7). Their only playoff appearance was a semifinal finish in PKL 9, showing improvement but no title.
The Thalaivas have tried different strategies, from building all-star teams with players like Rahul Chaudhari, Ajay Thakur, and Manjeet Chhillar in PKL 7 to focusing on young talents like Narender and Sagar. Despite a strong defensive unit in PKL 11, featuring Sagar Rathee and Nitesh Kumar, the Thalaivas need better raiding to compete for the title. Fans hope PKL 12 will see Tamil Thalaivas finally live up to their state’s kabaddi legacy.
UP Yoddhas
UP Yoddhas, based in Lucknow, have been the unluckiest of the four teams, consistently reaching the playoffs since PKL 5, except in PKL 10. However, they’ve never made it to the final. They lost in the Eliminator in PKL 5, 7, and 9, the semifinal in PKL 8 and 11, and Qualifier 2 in PKL 6. Remarkably, they were part of the only two tied playoff matches in PKL history (PKL 7 and 9), losing both.
With stars like Pardeep Narwal, Rishank Devadiga, and Nitesh Kumar, the Yoddhas have the talent but lack the final push. Their strong defensive unit, including Sumit and Hitesh, makes them a playoff favourite in PKL 12. If they can improve their overall game, UP Yoddhas could finally win their first title in PKL 12.
Why PKL 12 Could Be the Year for a First-Time Champion
The 2025 sports season has seen many teams win their first titles across different sports, raising hopes for Telugu Titans, Gujarat Giants, Tamil Thalaivas, and UP Yoddhas in PKL 12. Each team has unique strengths:
- Telugu Titans need to overcome their recent struggles with a balanced squad.
- Gujarat Giants have playoff experience and young talent.
- Tamil Thalaivas boast a strong raiding and defense support.
- UP Yoddhas are consistent playoff contenders, needing just one breakthrough.
Moreover, PKL’s history shows that new teams can succeed, as seen with Haryana Steelers in PKL 11. The auction for PKL 12, with strategic player picks, could give one of these teams the edge. Fans are excited to see which team will make history in PKL 12.
Challenges for Title-Less Teams in PKL 12
Each team faces unique challenges in PKL 12. Telugu Titans must rebuild after years of poor finishes. Gujarat Giants need to convert playoff appearances into final runs. Tamil Thalaivas require better team balance, while UP Yoddhas need to overcome their playoff curse. Facing strong teams like Patna Pirates and Jaipur Pink Panthers will test their skills in PKL 12.
Who Will Win Their First Title in PKL 12?
Predicting the PKL 12 champion is tough, but UP Yoddhas seem best positioned due to their consistent playoff runs and strong defense. Gujarat Giants, with their early success and talent, are also a safe bet. Tamil Thalaivas’ raiding strength makes them dark horses, while Telugu Titans could surprise if they find form. PKL 12 promises to be a thrilling season for these teams and their fans.
The Pro Kabaddi League has kept fans on the edge of their seats since 2014, and PKL 12 is set to deliver more excitement. Telugu Titans, Gujarat Giants, Tamil Thalaivas, and UP Yoddhas are desperate to win their first title, each with passionate fans cheering them on. With strategic auctions and renewed hope, PKL 12 could be the season one of these teams lifts the trophy, ending years of waiting.
FAQs
1. Which teams have never won a PKL title going into PKL 12?
Telugu Titans, Gujarat Giants, Tamil Thalaivas, and UP Yoddhas are the four teams yet to win a PKL title as of PKL 12.
2. Which team is most likely to win their first title in PKL 12?
UP Yoddhas are a strong contender for their first title in PKL 12 due to their consistent playoff appearances and solid defense, but Gujarat Giants and Tamil Thalaivas are also in the race.
3. How many titles have Patna Pirates won before PKL 12?
Patna Pirates have won three PKL titles (PKL 3, 4, and 5), the most by any team, heading into PKL 12.
